St. Mary’s Abbey in Howth

I’m back with more from Howth. The ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey dates back to 1042 when the area was ruled by King Sitric, a Viking king. The church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The original church was replaced around 1235 and then again in the 1300s.

After jetting from Howth, we headed to Malahide where we found a … Wait, I’ll keep that a surprise for now. Until next time.

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , , | 11 Comments

Ireland’s Eye

Last time, I shared some photos from Howth Head. Off the coast is Ireland’s Eye, a small uninhabited island. You can take a ferry to the island, but we were pressed for time. The massive freestanding rock, called “the Stack,” is located at the northeastern corner of the island. Grey seals can be found in the area, and I’m pretty sure I spied a nose in the water, but it happened so quickly I’m not positive. Here are some photos of Ireland’s Eye and views from the harbour. 

Next time I’ll share another place we visited in Howth.

 

 

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , , | 16 Comments

A Fab View

Recently, we took a day off to jaunt to Howth. We’d heard the views from Howth Head were breathtaking. Actually, it’s number five on Visit Dublin’s Seven Unbeatable Views. Howth is roughly fifteen kilometers northeast of Dublin.

Considering we were interested in seeing the views, we set aside two days to take off work. On Friday morning, we determined the weather was iffy, so we waited for Monday.

As it turned out, Friday would have been the better day. Oh well. It was still beautiful despite the clouds and spitting rain.

The photos don’t do the area justice. If you get a chance, I recommend visiting. Up next, another picturesque place in Howth.

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , | 12 Comments

Did someone say beer?

A couple of weeks ago, I had plans to go to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. When the day arrived, I considered not going. Not because I don’t like Guinness. I do. But I was feeling horrible. I didn’t know it at the time, but two days later, I was in bed with the flu.

Not wanting to let my friend down, I rallied and went. Truth be told, the promise of beer at the end of the tour was the deciding factor.

Below you’ll find some photos. The ones of the views were snapped while enjoying a pint in the extremely crowded Gravity Bar offering 360 degree views of the city.

 

 

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , | 17 Comments

#StPatricksDay Parade in Dublin

This gallery contains 20 photos.

More Galleries | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Getting ready for Dublin’s #StPatricksDay Parade

This gallery contains 23 photos.

More Galleries | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

Dublin is gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day

 

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , | 9 Comments

A Change of Plans

Earlier, I left the flat to go for a walk, but it was windy with rain threatening so I cut my walk short. On the way home, I picked up a lemon poppy seed donut and a cup of tea. When I saw these people on the Liffey, I felt slightly guilty. Luckily, I was able to brush it aside.

2012-01-01-00-00-00-81 2012-01-01-00-00-00-82Have a great Sunday!

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , | 11 Comments

Splashes of Color

Happy Friday!

Yesterday it was dull and gray in Dublin, but there are signs of spring. Have a marvelous weekend!

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , , , | 13 Comments

Dublin at night

When I moved to Dublin in July I was amazed by how long the days seemed. The sun was up well before I even contemplated getting out of bed and stayed until close to my bedtime.

Now, I’m equally fascinated by the long nights. Luckily it hasn’t been too cold or rainy and I’ve been able to catch some of the holiday lights and festive spirit.

Before I go, I’m off on holiday this week and just in case I don’t get my act together in time, I want to wish all of you a happy holiday.

Posted in Ireland | Tagged , | 21 Comments